Category Archives: Musings

DISCERNING THE TIMES – 2016


BLOG POST - Discerning the Times

Over the past months and even years I have been deeply concerned for my nation and her citizens.  There is a noticeable assault on our Constitutional Liberties and Rights and while it is not a new phenomenon it has escalated over the past few years.  I want to share something that I feel God has put in my heart regarding four specific areas upon which I will be focusing in the foreseeable future.

I have posted the following on YouTube and hope that you will devote a little over six minutes to listening.  You may agree or disagree and that is your privilege and right, a right I have and will defend.

https://youtu.be/9qEuGrHUzbY

It is my genuine prayer and desire that God bless America and God bless you!

ESSENTIAL RESEARCH – Each Candidate’s Tax Plans…


BLOG POST 2 - Income Tax

I in a recent debate among the Republican hopefuls for 2016 the moderator posed the question regarding taxes citing that 68% of Americans polled support an increase in taxes for those making over a $1 Million per year.  Is that truly reflective of America?  Is that the result of the persistent attempt to create a class or economic warfare where the rich are hated for being rich and a desire to “spread the wealth?”  I don’t know, but I suspect it has more to do with envy and jealousy and buying into the diatribe and rhetoric that the rich are not paying their fair share.  Whatever a fair share is!

I thought it would be germane to our discussion and vetting of the candidates to consider where they stand on personal and corporate income taxes.  I have been surprised in discussing the various candidates with friends and those I meet, how little they know about where their preferred candidate stands on these issues.  I will address the Republican and Democrat Candidates in alphabetical order regarding their proposed Tax Rates.  I cannot go into the full details of their individual plans, you will need to go to their websites and review the details.

BLOG POST 2 - Tax Plans

  • Jeb Bush – – Top individual rate 28% and 20% for corporations. He would eliminate State and local deductions, offer a new break for lower earning spouses and the full and immediate write-off of capital investments with no interest deduction.
  • Ben Carson – – Top individual rate 14.9% for individuals and businesses.  He would abolish all tax credits and deductions, eliminate taxes on estates, capital gains, dividends and interest.  His tax rates would apply above 150% of the federal poverty level.
  • Ted Cruz – – Flat Tax of 10% for individuals and 16% for businesses.  He would keep the mortgage and charitable contribution deductions as well as tax-deferred savings accounts.  Businesses could deduct investments.
  • John Kasich – – Top individual rate 28% and 25% for corporations. Full write-off of capital investments and expand the earned-income tax credit.
  • Marco Rubio – – Top individual rate 35% and 25% for businesses.  No taxes on capital gains and dividends from new investments.  He adds a $2,500 child tax credit.
  • Donald Trump – – Top individual rate 25% and 15% for businesses. Removes individuals with income under $25,000 and married couples under $50,000 from income tax.

On the Democrat side, I have seen numerous plans and Hillary and Bernie both support a tax code that would have at least 49-50% tax rate on the top individuals.

  • Hillary Clinton – – Proposes higher capital gains rates on assets held for 1-6 years and a 4% “Fair Share Surcharge” on taxpayers making more than $5 Million per year. Debt free Tuition at public colleges and expanded childcare assistance programs.  More entitlements.
  • Bernie Sanders – – Proposes a 0.2% payroll tax increase to pay for family leave program. Keep the Death or Estate Tax and have it begin at $3.5 Million instead of the current $5.45 Million.  Impose Social Security Payroll taxes on wages over $250,000 no caps.  His health plan would require a new 6.2% business payroll tax and a 2.2% tax for all top rates up to 52%.  Expand Social Security benefits, free tuition to public colleges and universal health and child care.

At this point, among the candidates, we have the Democrats proposing a tax increase and most of the Republicans proposing tax reductions although Rubio’s is a minimal reduction.  The Bush and Kasich plans are incredibly similar in rate and extras.  Dr. Carson’s plan would give a dramatic reduction for individuals and businesses.  Ted Cruz would move away from the progressive tax plan to a Flat Tax.  There are nuisances of each plan that each of us should carefully consider.

BLOG POST 2 - Men in Black

However, I suggest that these are all PLANS and PROPOSALS and not guarantees that they can or will get them enacted by congressional legislation.  When I hear a candidate say, “I will do this or that” I take it with a grain of salt and reflect on the process upon which our government works or is supposed to work.  We have had over seven years of lawlessness in which the sitting president acts as a King or Potentate and imposes his will on Congress, the Courts, and the People.  NO MORE!  That must stop and so far as I am able to discern the GOP candidates have indicated they will not follow that path, so I am hopeful. 

I personally believe that everyone should have skin in the game and when we have half of the population paying ZERO TAXES voting to increase taxes on the other half we have a problem of epic proportions.  If everyone had a stake in the American government we would see a renewed push for limited government as proposed and established by the Constitution and our founding fathers.

God bless you and God bless America!

 

DIVIDED AMERICA – Where Does It Lead?


Blog Post 3 - Divided America

America is more divided today than I can remember in my lifetime.  The vitriol coming from virtually every direction is so divisive and inflammatory one wonders how we have avoided massive encounters resulting in bloodshed by opposing factions.  America, in my view, is a seething caldron or pressure cooker waiting to explode and UNLESS something changes that explosion will soon become a reality.  What will that achieve?

In the current and previous Presidential Campaigns we are exposed to such deviousness that to those who pray, desire the best good for the nation, and actually examine the assertions, statements, and promises find deeply disturbing.  Will it change?  Not as long as it works in stirring the emotions to the point they override rational reason and honest examination of the matters at hand.  There is a concerted effort of visible and invisible powers to fan the flames of hatred, distrust, envy, jealousy and push ideological differences to the point of producing real and realized hatred.  I have learned that when HATE is allowed full vent REASON is normally abandoned and the desire to subjugate the objects of hatred is paramount.

Blog Post 3 - Sound Bites

In today’s political world politicians continually offer “sound bite” assertions and accusations knowing their words will achieve the desired objective of stirring the emotions, clouding reason and endearing others to their cause.  I do not mind politicians naming another candidate and asking for a clarification of a particular policy or promise.  I do mind them doing so in a manner they know is rooted in deviousness and is filled with half-truths or outright fabrications but playing on the suspicion of the American voter and fanning the flames of distrust for politicians.  It is one thing to compare your ideology, policy or plan to another’s and asking the voter to decide which they think best and prefer.  It is quite another to use deception to discredit an opponent seeking to build yourself up by tearing them down.  I find that repulsive!

I long to hear politicians offer the ideology, planned policies, their plans for solutions to current problems and how they align with the Constitution on issues.  If an opponent is for increased taxes and you are opposed then highlight the difference without using deception, simply offer facts and allow the opponent to respond and the people evaluate and decide.  Unfortunately, American voters have demonstrated a propensity for voting based on emotions so frequently that politicians feel obligated to fan those flames and know that “sound bite” politics is effective.  We have created this monster and we are the ones who must defeat it.

Blog Post 3 - Flames

It is frightening that politicians are allowed or are so lacking moral integrity they would practice such deception and seek to further divide this nation.  The attempt to use “race” as a tool to solidify a voting block is not only insulting to those they use but dangerous for society.  We know that there is an increasing number of people whose anger, bias and hatred based on real and perceived injustices and that poses the potential for violence.  Nobody should desire that, not even a dishonest politician whose singular objective is personal power, position, and purse.  It is troubling when politicians are willing to trample on the Constitutional Rights of a segment of society in favor of another solely for the purpose of acquiring votes.

It would be refreshing and heartening if politicians backed up their claims and promises with definitive records and actions.  If one claims to be a Free Market Capitalist how does he/she support heavy government regulations, increased taxes, government subsidies or eminent domain to name a few?  If one claims to support National Security how does he/she support AMNESTY for ILLEGALS?  If one claims to believe in limited government how does he/she support a tax plan that hinders business and increasingly takes money from the workers.  How does he/she support an increase in entitlements and a continuation of “baseline budgeting” rather than a “zero based budget”?    It seems that virtually all of them err on some point and that is of concern to me.

We are continually bombarded with, “My opponent supports this or that” without hearing a detail of the plan the candidate would advance.  I appreciate that we are talking about things we have been unwilling to talk about on the political stage but am troubled by the planned deception of virtually every candidate without fully revealing their plan.  I know, I know people would become bored with details and are more interested in a good mud-slinging fight.  That reveals a flaw in the American psyche that troubles me deeply.  We are divided and becoming more divided even within the political parties that claim to all want the same thing.  No, for the most part, we want what we want and are not overly concerned with how it affects everyone else.

Blog Post 3 - Restore

America we can turn this thing around and reclaim our Constitutional Republic but not if we continue down the road of DIVISION and DIVISIVENESS.  I have not formerly endorsed any candidate yet and some take exception to that.  I know many are so adamant in their support that they can tolerate no differing view.  I want what is best for America as the Constitutional Republic and want to have a President who will not only promise to protect and defend the constitution but will, without fail, do so.  I do not want a president that does whatever he/she wants but one that will follow the prescribed separation of powers, consider the will of the people and devotedly uphold and follow the Constitution.  Anything less than that is unacceptable to me.

God bless you and God bless America!

 

 

OBAMA & HILLARY TRAINED BY THE SAME SCHOOL OF THOUGHT…


Blog Post 2 - Disciples

I have seen the “How To Create A Social State” attributed to Saul Alinsky and cannot find it anywhere in his writings.  I will not absolutely declare it was not derived from his teachings but when I try to verify it I am unable so I will refrain from using it.

However, if one reads the “Twelve Rules For Radicals” you will find much that would lend itself to the very plan listed in the supposed Eight Rules which include control of Healthcare, Income, Debt, Guns, Welfare, Education, Religion and the creation of Class Warfare.  All which the left are using proficiently in modern times.  I have no doubt they learned and developed this strategy largely from Alinsky’s teachings but will declare that this goes far deeper in history and are ideas belched from the pit of hell.

Blog Post 2 - Lenin

The ideas of Alinsky could rightly be viewed as simplifications of those of Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin who is reported to have declared that his disciples were “useful idiots”.  I have read that the term was actually used by Lenin to describe Westerners duped into saying good things about bad regimes.  I can believe it was the mentality of Lenin and Stalin but whether he said it or not it is still applicable today.  Lenin and Stalin reportedly used the term “polyezniy idiot” or “useful idiot” to describe sympathizers in the West who blindly supported Communist leaders.

Lenin reportedly said, “The goal of socialism is communism.  Give me just one generation of youth, and I will transform the whole world.”  Winston Churchill declared, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.”  The idea is that equality trumps all in socialism.  All, that is, except the corrupt politicians in charge!  They exempt themselves from the laws they create to control.

Among the interesting items to be found in Alinsky’s writings is this statement:  As an organizer, I start where the world is, as it is, not as I would like it to be. That we accept the world as and it does not in any sense weaken our desire to change it into what we believe it should be — it is necessary to begin where the world is if we are going to change it to what we think it should be. — P. xix.   That would explain Obama’s press to create the Utopian World living within his mind.  Alinsky also said something that cause me to come to a screeching halt and ponder today’s climate and the rationale behind the push for “gun control” by the left.  He said, “Power comes out of the barrel of a gun!” is an absurd rallying cry when the other side has all the guns.”  Xxi.

Blog Post 2 - Reformation

His definition of Reformation should cause alarm bells to go off in our sense of liberty and morality.  “A reformation means that masses of our people have reached the point of disillusionment with past ways and values.  They don’t know what will work but they know that the prevailing system is self-defeating, frustrating, and hopeless.  They won’t act for change, but won’t strongly oppose those who do.  The time then is ripe for revolution.”  Xxii. His prescription for young radicals was:  “…the answer I gave the young radicals seemed to me the only realistic one:  “Do one of three things.  One, go find a wailing wall and feel sorry for yourselves. Two, go psycho and start bombing — but this only swings: people to the right.  Three, learn a lesson. Go home, organize, build power and at the next convention, you be the delegates.” — xxiii

Blog Post 2 - Satan and Alinsky

A key philosophy of Alinsky and demonstrated by both Obama and Hillary is: “One’s concern with ethics of means and ends varies inversely with one’s personal interest in the issue.”  He declared, “The fifth rule of the ethics and ends is that concern with ethics increases with the number of means available and vice versa.  To the man of action the first criterion in determining which means to employ is to assess what means are available.  Reviewing and selecting available means is done on a straight utilitarian basis – WILL IT WORK?  Moral questions may enter when one chooses among equally effective alternate means. “- P.32.

 We have witnessed years of demonstrated discipleship to the Alinsky Model by the left and especially Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.  They truly believe the “end justifies the means” and lives only have value if they advance the ideological agenda desired.  We saw that in Benghazi and see it regularly.

Knowing they are disciples of Saul Alinsky should be enough to cause hesitation and rejection of them and their agendas but it has not been heretofore.  Will it be in 2016?  I am waiting for that answer.  The connections to Alinsky, the adoption of Fabian Socialist ideas and agendas, the associations with people like Domestic Terrorist Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn to name a couple should Americans to realize that the left does not have America’s best interest at heart but desire to “fundamentally transform” this nation into something more aligned with Communist Despotism.  The fairy tale world of Socialism where everyone is equal and all share is a theory that is only workable on paper and theory not in reality.

God help us if we allow someone of Hillary Clinton’s mentality, ideology and ilk occupy the White House as a result of the Elections of 2016.  May God cause us to awaken out of our slumber, shake ourselves, rise up, step up, speak up and engage ourselves in preserving the Republic our Founders Established and God’s divine providence allowed!

God bless you and God bless America!

HEY HILLARY – What Is Broken That You Want To Fix?


Blog Post 3 - Four More Years

I don’t know about anyone else but I find it almost laughable that Hillary Clinton is trying to tap dance through Obama’s policies acknowledging that there are things that are not working without saying the past seven years has not worked.  Bernie Sanders, to his credit, is not saying he does not believe things are working simply they are not going far enough or fast enough to suit his Socialist mentality.  He thinks more spending, more government regulations, more and Bigger Government throwing money around like it grew on trees is a good thing.

I thought Chris Matthews asking Hillary to explain the difference between a Socialist and a Democrat was priceless but not as priceless as her inability to answer the question.  He tried to give her an out and she finally said, “I don’t know what one is but I’m not one.  I’m a progressive Democrat who likes to get things done and work together on solutions.”  Seriously?  You don’t know what a Socialist is but you are not one.  How do you know?  Also, claiming you want to get things done and work with people is so generic it deserves no consideration as a viable answer to any question.  Hillary said, “We need to get the Economy going.”  Really?  If the policies of the past seven years are working and good why do we need to fix the economy?  Hey, Ms. Clinton, you are a liberal Democrat, right?  Why not run saying, “Elect me and you get four more years of the same policies, ideology and agenda you have had for seven years.” 

Blog Post 3 - Hillary

Why isn’t she doing that?  Because she and her handlers pay attention to which way the wind is blowing and a significant percentage of Americans believe we are headed in the WRONG DIRECTION and that means they do not believe the policies are or have worked.  Therefore, without telling us how she would get the economy going, she says we need to.  The sheep of the left drink that in and say, “Hillary is right.”  Of course, no thought is given to how the past seven years have fixed nothing but exasperated much.

Barack Obama ran declaring he would be the Great Uniter and the nations who have heretofore hated us will once again respect and love us.  He went on his apology tour throughout the Arab world apologizing for the evil sinful America of the past and proclaimed that a new day had dawned, the sun was shining and the birds chirping because He would bring America down to size and show a nice side to the bully nation. (His view not mine).  Sadly, we are less respected today than we have been in my lifetime.  Those who once feared our superior might no longer consider us anything but a paper tiger because of his unilateral reduction in our military strength.  He has significantly reduced our nuclear arsenal claiming that if we did that the other nations would know we were not a threat and they would either disarm or cease seeking nuclear weapons.  Imagine that!  How has that worked out?  Russia and China have disarmed, right?  North Korea has ceased production on nuclear weapons, right?  Of course, Iran would never seek to have a nuclear weapon and we can trust them so much we let them police and inspect themselves.  Well, that is NOT EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED!   Please do not forget the recent action by the Iranians with regard to our Navy boats and  how this wonderful ally responded.  Friends?  Trustworthy?  Wanting to work together?  HARDLY!  America is in greater danger today militarily than ever.  I say that as one who is a combat veteran and greatly respects our military but the so-called Commander in Chief has hamstrung much of our military and that is not just bad or dangerous it is diabolical.

Blog Post 3 - Socialism

Hillary, why is it that you are not touting the ideology and policies of this administration as wonderful and vowing to give us more of the same?  You believe what Mr. Obama believes.  You are a disciple of the same mentality as he so why distance yourself, even slightly?  If what he and the Democrats have offered is so wonderful why not step up and declare FOUR MORE YEARS?

Why?  Because you know his policies are abject failures.  However, if you were elected we would not only get FOUR MORE YEARS but our borders would be completely eradicated, there would be far more than 50% of America on government entitlements, the assault on our 2nd Amendment Rights would escalate and Government would become larger and more intrusive than under the two terms of Barack H. Obama.

Ms. Clinton, we have a broken America or one that is dangerously close to being broken beyond repair.  You have lied about Benghazi, your incredibly dangerous use of private email servers and repeatedly avowed to do even more than Mr. Obama in pushing America to the left.  I can only hope that the FBI forces the DOJ to do the right thing and hold you accountable.  It is clear that the Republicans in Congress have no willingness or stomach for that fight.  I can only hope the American people recognize the dangers and failures of FOUR MORE YEARS breaking the Greatest Nation on the planet and reject you and those who follow your ideological agenda.

God bless you and God bless America.  I stand firmly for FAITH, FAMILY, and FREEDOM!

 

 

A DISTURBING IMAGE IN MY HEAD…


BLOG Post 4 - What

Over the past seven years, America has been on a path leading away from individual liberty, personal rights, and Constitutional Liberty.  I know, some will castigate me for that statement saying, “You are just a mean-spirited Republican.”  Today, I find it difficult to identify with the GOP as led by the Karl Rove’s and certainly not the Democrats led by Mr. Obama, the Clinton’s or the hierarchy of the parties.  I don’t particularly like the identifier of “Independent” but prefer “Patriot” and “Constitutionalist” but the two major parties from which we will select the next president are Democrat or Republican.

Some of those on the left are showing signs of ditching the Hillary Bandwagon and jumping on the Bernie Sanders Socialist Train.  I do not know if there will be more like Joe Biden who will publicly say supportive things for Bernie and in a backhanded way slam Hillary but if they do then we could see a Bernie Sanders nomination for the Democrat ticket.  What would that mean?  That brings me to the image in my head as I prayed and thought about what is happening in our nation and world today.

Blog Post 4 - First Black

Just seven years ago, America elected Barack Obama and largely because he was black or claimed identity as African-American.  Say what you will, many of the Republicans, Independents and Southern Democrats that pulled the lever for him to show the world they were not racist.  It was not based on his resume for he virtually had no resume.  The black community voted overwhelmingly for him and any attempt to declare that was not based on his race would be futile. If whites or any other group voted in such block numbers for a candidate of their ethnicity the screams of racism would be deafening.  America took what has been called a historic path and elected the “first black president” in history.

I believe that marked a transition that may be more than the lovers of Constitutional Liberty and the Constitutional Republic can overcome.  Now, we are hearing please elect the “first woman president” but what happens if Hillary falters and Bernie Sanders rises to the top and claims the nomination?  How about the historic move to elect the “first self-proclaimed Socialist president”?  You say, that cannot happen but the more I study the situation and sense the direction the wind is blowing in this nation I am not sure.

Blog Post 4 - Angry Americans

We have millions who are angry and they are not all committed to voting for the Republican candidate.  There are some very angry people on both sides of the political aisle and I can envision a scenario in which the Main Stream Media, Academia and millions would say, “Well, we’ve tried everything else let’s try Socialism.”  That would be the final nail in the coffin of the Constitutional Republic the founders gave us and would answer the question or response of Benjamin Franklin when asked, “Well Doctor, what have we got, a republic or a monarchy?”  Franklin responded, “A republic, madam – if you can keep it.”  That was their concern and has been the concern of many of us who consider ourselves Constitutionalist, Conservative and supporters of a Constitutional Republic.

There are new polls that indicate virtually every Republican can beat Hillary in the General Election but some would be beaten and beaten soundly by Bernie Sanders.  Why?  What is the mood of the populace?  Why would people want or dare to elect an avoided Socialist to the highest office in the land?  The misguided notion of EQUALITY and that somehow life is supposed to be FAIR.  If you have worked hard, risked much and achieved amassing substantial wealth you are deemed to be corrupt and evil and should be forced to share your wealth with those less fortunate or less willing to risk or work.  How far do we take SHARING?  Should everyone in the classroom be given the same grade?  Should everyone make the same salary?  Is the marriage vow no longer valid and we must share our spouses too?  I find that appalling but how far do we take this EQUALITY, FAIRNESS and SHARING ideology?

Blog Post 4 - Wake Up

I am writing this with a heavy heart for I am deeply concerned for my nation.  I am writing, not as a prediction this will happen but a warning that it is not so far-fetched it could not happen.  I am writing hoping to cause some to become stirred and realize that just letting happen what will happen is not an option.  If you do not invest yourself in the process you are ceding the decision to others who may or may not have your best interest at heart.

I am personally unwilling to let others make my life choices!  My drive and commitment remain Faith, Family, and Freedom.   God bless you and God bless America!   REMEMBER NOVEMBER America’s future hangs in the balance.

AMERICA’S GREATEST THREATS – As per Barack Obama…


Blog Post - Bomb

This is not an official list released by the White House but one that I have complied based on his words and deeds over the past 7+ years he has been in office.  I am quite sure that some will not agree and some would list these in different order but let me postulate my view.

  • Climate Change.  [It is not necessary to justify this being placed at the top of the list for it comes from his own words and Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton, John Kerry and many more leftist agree.]  
  • Republicans.  [He has lamented time and again that the Republicans are a greater threat to our National Security than ISIS or any terrorist.  Hillary, Bernie, Kerry and many other leftist agree.]
  • Guns.  [That’s right he believes that the gun is evil and therefore, in his misguided effort, to keep guns from criminals and terrorist the law-abiding must be disarmed as well.  A view supported by all Democrat presidential candidates and most leftist.]
  • The Constitution. [He has frequently complained that the Constitution was too restrictive and that it imposed hindrances to what the government could do.  Of course he has ignored it with little resistance for Congress or the Courts.  I have no doubt that Hillary and the others on the left are in lock step with this view.]
  • Too Little Government Spending. [That’s right, in his view and that of the leftist as well as many so-called Republicans we need more spending, more debt, more deficit, more entitlements, etc.]
  • Christians.  [Before you protest and tell me he is a Christian I must ask, “Why is he so quick to defend Islam and so quick to blame Christians for the atrocities of history?”  Why is he so obsessed with mandating Christians and Churches violate their convictions and beliefs to follow his politically correct tolerance view which stems from complete intolerance of the other side?]

This list is certainly not exhaustive although exhausting and should disturb every patriotic freedom loving American citizen.  America is less safe today than it was even 8 years ago and is growing less safe with each passing edict, action or inaction by this administration.

Blog Post - E Plubrus Unum

I realize there are supporters of the Democrat agenda and ideology who find the growing list of what most consider detrimental policies acceptable and even too limited.  I have stated before and state again, I am far less concerned about the (D) or (R) behind the name of the candidate than I am their personal, private and public views and history regarding the Constitution, Conservative Principles, Moral Rightness or as I often define it, “Faith, Family and Freedom.”  If they have a track record either in politics or life that indicates they have been defenders of those things I am more than willing to listen to what they propose.  If they have a track record of being Anti those things then I am predisposed to believe they will also be “Anti” if elected to office.  I know people change and shift their ideological perspective, I have to some degree on some things.  However, for the most part, Leopards do not change their spots and the core values largely remain the same in people’s lives without an epiphany of some kind.

We have a president who has aided, if not created a greater division in race relations than we have experienced in many years.  We have a president who has systematically reduced our military capabilities by seeking to reduce the size and strength of our forces and weaponry as well as purge high ranking brass from the ranks who disagree or question his policies.  We have a president who has waged war on the Christian faith in demanding that believers violate their core convictions and consciences to accommodate someone or something he desires to advance.  We have a president who is seeking to eliminate our national sovereignty by erasing our borders and in so doing is weakening our national security.  We have a president who is not respected by our allies nor feared by our enemies and thereby placed America and Americans in greater danger worldwide than we have been in a very long time.

Head in Hands

I am sorely disappointed in many of the Republicans and most of the Democrats elected and sent to Washington to represent WE THE PEOPLE.  I am concerned that the American people have been less engaged than is required to reclaim and restore the Republic.  I am hopeful but deeply concerned as to what we will do in the 2016 Elections for I consider them possibly the most critical we have faced in my lifetime.

What is America worth to you?  How much will you invest to see the Constitutional Republic established by our Founding Fathers and enjoyed for more than two centuries preserved, salvaged and/or restored?  My commitment is to “Faith, Family and Freedom.”

            God bless America and God bless you!

 

AMERICAN HISTORY – – The Real, the Imagined and the Revision…


Blog Post - American History

 

 

 

 

Many of us for a long time have been aware of the systematic “dumbing down” of those in public primary and secondary schools and especially many institutions of higher learning.  There are so many things being distorted and the attempts at moral equivalence has become more than a potential problem it has risen to the epidemic stage.  This administration and the hard core Democrat Establishment types have either lost contact with reality or they have willingly tossed it aside in favor of an agenda to “fundamentally transform” America into something other than a Constitutional Republic.

There are more examples than a short article can introduce but let me identify some things that defy logic, common sense and are such a stretch it is almost inconceivable that anyone would believe it much less teach it.  There is a consistent and concerted effort to decry everything about America and its beginnings.  One of the most recent is the unified cry of the Democrats, some Republicans and some religious leaders to compare and equate the Syrian refugees to the Pilgrims.  In my view, that is so outlandish it is difficult to believe any rational thinking person would not reject this self-righteous manipulation of truth and history.

Blog Post - Pilgrims

The Pilgrims left their native lands seeking “religious freedom” and to avoid “persecution”.  These people left the known to go to a land they knew almost nothing about and with total uncertainty as to what would await them.  They were not promised protection, sustenance and shelter they risked everything out of a desire to achieve religious freedom.  The Syrian refugees are being rounded up, selected and flown into this nation with guarantees from our government of housing, foods, protection, sustenance and more.  What exactly are they risking?  How can you compare the Syrian refuges or militants posing as refugees to the Pilgrims?  You cannot unless you ignore reality, truth and facts.  It is the attempt of moral equivalency, manipulation and attempting to shame Americans into believing that to resist this influx is somehow Un-Christian, inhumane and Un-American.

Blog Post - Violent Extremism.png

There is such a attempt to “justify” Islamist and Islam that some have taken steps to completely hamstring police and federal agencies to keep us safe from terrorism.  In the “Countering Violent Extremism Training” issued by the federal government.  That document places such restrictions on law enforcement while allowing freedom of movement and operation by potential terrorist it is frightening.  Basically, the police may suspect a terrorist plot but find it increasingly difficult to examine or monitor social media.  This administration has made using what the people are posting themselves on social media largely off limits citing privacy and civil liberties.  I am a strong proponent of our right to privacy and the liberties and rights afforded by the Constitution but if someone is posting their allegiance to Islamic terrorism or any terrorism as well as posts that encourage violence they should be fair game.  San Bernardino is a prime example of why this is a bad policy but one that is consistent with this administration’s defense of Islam and Islamist.  I am including a link to “Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) Training” – Do’s and Don’ts issued by the Department of Homeland Security and National Counterterrorism Center http://www.training.fema.gov/emiweb/docs/shared/cve%20do%20and%20dont.pdf.

History is a valuable tool for predicting the future and should be a schoolmaster teaching us pitfalls to avoid.  However, when history is not conducive to the ideology of the ruling powers it is modified, distorted and/or revised to fit the narrative.  We are in a war we did not initiate with Islamic Jihadist, they did.  They have openly declared war on America and most of the Free World.  We either take the stance that we are going to address our National Security, adopt policies to combat terrorism regardless of where it originates, secure our borders, allow the Free Market to bolster our economy and return to the Rule of Law, the Constitution and once again operate as a Republic or we lose America.  It is not just a choice of Republican or Democrat it is a choice of America, Right and Freedom.

            God bless you and God bless America!

 

THE ELECTIONS ARE RIGGED SO WHY BOTHER???


Blog Post 2 - Elections Rigged

I have friends and fellow conservatives who truly hold the view that all elections are rigged and the outcome predetermined.  Therefore, they see no reason to go to the polls because, in their view, it does not matter.  I will not argue or even suggest that there is not massive “voter fraud” and elections are “stolen” but I will argue that it is still important to go to the polls and cast our ballots.

“If” the elections are rigged and the outcome predetermined, how does one explain the Republicans gaining control of the House and Senate?  That control was squarely in the hands of the Democrats and loyal Obama soldiers marching to his commands and advancing the liberal agenda.  Why would the riggers allow this?  I acknowledge that the Republicans have been anything but stalwarts in opposing this push but somehow in the midst of rigged elections we wrested control of both Houses of Congress from the Democrats.

“If” the elections are rigged and the outcome predetermined, how does one explain the statistical probabilities that Mitt Romney could have and likely would have beaten Barack Obama in 2012 had millions of Republicans not refused to go to the polls?  The statistical numbers indicate that had those millions voted in the varying states it would have been enough to swing the election to the Republican candidate.  Please understand, Romney was not my desired candidate but if my choice is Romney or Obama I will take Romney every time.  I can understand and appreciate people standing for their “principles”, I do and my core principles declare that that America is too valuable to allow my dislike or disagreement with portions of what the nominee stands for or might do and thereby allow someone I know will be destructive and Anti-American win the election.

Blog Post 2 - I Still Believe

At this juncture I am unable to accept that my vote is meaningless.  I still hold the belief that even if there is massive voter fraud a monumental turnout by those who desire a Constitutional Republic, Conservative agenda and Limited Government we can offset their plans and beat them.  Could I be wrong?   Of course!  I like to believe I am a “realist” although some would call me a “pessimist” and others would label this belief as “fantasy optimism”.  If we do not try we are guaranteed defeat.

What can we do?  More than we are in most cases.  I have friends who tell me, “I don’t like politics so I just ignore it.”  I don’t like it either but neither do I like cleaning the toilet in my house but if I don’t it becomes unbearable.  There are some things that are not optional and in this day and time politics is one of them.  Benjamin Franklin’s warning is so relevant today.  When asked what type of government was adopted he declared, “A Republic if you can keep it.”  The wisdom and foresight of our Founders is sometime astounding and the willingness to ignore politics and politicians is not just dangerous it is doom.

What can we do?  We can volunteer to be poll watchers and if not accepted we can become unofficial watchers and report all violations observed.  We can volunteer to work for the candidate of our choice.  We can invest our time and treasure in helping them win the nomination and then work to insure that the most conservative, constitutional and integrous candidate possible.  We can attempt to educate, investigate, vet and inform.  THEN, we can go to the polls and cast our ballot.  It is when I have done those things that I can face my children, grandchildren and fellow Americans knowing I have done all legally allowable.

Blog Post 2 - John Wayne

Some advocate a new revolution and that may one day become a necessity as Jefferson suggested but today I still believe we can through prayer, moral integrity, labor and voting make a difference.  Am I wrong?  Possibly but that is my view and all I ask is you respect mine and I will respect and defend your right to yours.  This article may cost me social media friends and if it does, it does.  I offer it to ask you to carefully consider what is at stake and determine the best course of action on your part.

            God bless you and God bless America!

THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION…


Blog Post - Constitution

How you view the United States Constitution depends upon which side of the political aisle you stand.  If you are on the Democrat, liberal, leftist, socialist and sometimes moderate Republican side you view it as archaic and/or an ever evolving document.  If you are on the Republican, conservative or limited government side you see it as the foundational document that is timeless and the guide for the rule of law in America.

After years of studying history and this incredible document I believe that it represents and reflects the character of the founding fathers and that of the American people over the past two centuries plus.  In this third century we are seeing a significant erosion and shift in the mindset of many in the public.  Why?  I believe it is largely due to successive generations of indoctrination in the public school, liberal theological institutions presentation or the lack thereof of absolutes in truth, the main stream media and politician’s distortions and misrepresentations of the meaning and intent of the founders.  They have worked tirelessly to suggest and spin the idea that one cannot be a strict constructionist and be true to the intent of the founders.

At the core of this disagreement is often a struggle for power something the founders understood and sought to defeat.  The American Constitution has clearly defined boundaries for each branch of government and I truly believe it the conviction of the founders that each branch would be so jealous of and diligent to preserve its authority the three branches would provide a workable and desirable system of “checks and balances.”  Today, Congress has largely abdicated its role and transferred by silence or act its authority to the Executive Branch.  The Courts have also become complicit in transforming the Executive Branch into one that can only be described as a “soft tyranny” and dangerously close to being a “hard tyranny.”

Blog Post - Balance of Power

Congress has many recorded incidents where they have relinquished their power and authority to both the Executive and/or Judicial Branch.  In some respects, the Legislative Branch has become almost meaningless and one of the reasons many are calling for a Convention of States to rewrite the Constitution and restore the balance of power and place the oversight of government back in the hands of the voting public.  In the 1970’s Congress allowed usurpation of their power and responsibility by the Executive Branch in various agencies such as OSHA and the EPA.  Obamacare is a prime example of Congress failing to do its due diligence and that was reflected in Nancy Pelosi’s statement, “We have to pass it to find out what is in it.”  I can only imagine what Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Paine and George Washington, to name a few, would have said about that.  The disaster know as Dodd-Frank in 2010 presented a heavy blow to the economy and we are still reeling from that punch.

Congress has gone almost beyond the point of no return in forgetting and/or ignoring its exclusive Constitutional Authority and Power as described in Article I, Sections 8 and 9 which deals with spending by the federal government and taxation.  This has led to a number of federal agencies collecting their own taxes and generating revenue extra-constitutionally.  Congress no longer passes annual appropriations bills, agency by agency.  What we have today are “continuing resolutions” or “blank checks” for the president to do what he will regarding spending.  Congress could have stopped many of the disastrous Obama policies via the power of the purse but the Democrats have no desire and the Republicans are afraid of their own shadows.  The result is WE THE PEOPLE paid, are paying and will continue to pay the price.

Blog Post - Restoration

We used to have “lame duck” presidents in the last year of their second term but this president is anything but, largely because the Republican controlled Congress has demonstrated no intestinal fortitude and seem to be oblivious to their actual powers, duties and responsibilities constitutionally and as Representatives of the American people.    What could they do?

  • Reclaim the taxing, spending and borrowing powers the Constitution affords them.
  • Immediately and consistently exercise the power of the purse in appropriations.
  • Become Representatives of the people and Legislators once again as per the Constitution.
  • Eliminate the Cronyism that is often reflected in the seniority system and put people in chair positions who actually have some qualifications and demonstrate a propensity to follow the Constitution.                                                                                               
  • Blog Post - WhereAre there more things that could be done?  Absolutely but at the voter level we must resolve to elect only those who will actually support and defend the Constitution.  At the Congressional level we must have members of the House and Senate who refuse to cave to the pressure inside the beltway, lobbyist and elitist and do what they were elected to do.

    The Constitution can be a tool or vehicle to lead us forth to restoration of the Republic or if we continue on the current path it will be transformed to meaninglessness and the Republic will be no more.  The question is, “How much is a Constitutional America worth you and me?”  We will determine that, in a great measure, in 2016.

    God bless you and God bless America!